F4 & Open Wheel Racing

Formula 4 Course Overview

Our F4 open-wheel experiences have been specially created for drivers who are seeking the thrill and excitement of professional-level racing. During your Formula 4 racing experience, you will be behind the wheel of a Ligier JS F4, a purpose-built single-seater racing car producing 160bhp and weighing in at only 1254 lbs. Formula 4 track day courses are available as Intro, Intermediate, and Advanced F4 courses, along with a new competition-only Karts-to-Cars program.

Our F4 instruction includes formula car-focused driving techniques and data analysis, as well as competition-specific training and SCCA accreditation with certain classes.

Helmet

Course fundamentals:

– For aspiring open-wheel drivers and racers
– In-depth Formula 4 race car immersion
– Advanced racing techniques and car control skills
– Track etiquette and competition rule training

Race Track

Course specs:

– 3:1 student/instructor ratio
– From beginner to advanced driver levels
– 1.6 mile road course
– Ligier JS F4 Formula 4 racecar

F4 Racing – Introduction Course

F4 Racing at Radford provides drivers with comprehensive training that is designed to enhance their experience, further their driving skills, and keep them safe on our track. Our F4 experiences are designed for everyone, whether you have a passion for racing as a hobby, or are starting your career in professional motorsports, F4 at Radford combines adrenaline-fuelled track time with an opportunity to develop your driving skills.

Our team of F4 instructors make sure their tuition matches your level of experience to maximise the value of your session. We have the option of a 1 or 2-day F4 Open-Wheel course.

Get Closer Than Ever to Formula 1

Discover our world-class Formula 4 race car driving courses and experience all of the thrills of Formula 1 driving in a single-seater racing car. This specialised course is designed for racing enthusiasts of all levels, even if you’ve never stepped foot in a racing car before. During your F4 experience, we will build on any prior experience or create a firm foundation of knowledge if it is your first. Our program could be your first step towards a thrilling career in racing.

During your racing experience, you will learn important single-seater track car control skills, crucial for becoming a confident, competitive racer. We will focus on enhancing your reaction skills, imparting a deep understanding of vehicle dynamics, and discussing and practising skid control. This driving experience is like no other, providing you with a unique opportunity to get behind the wheel of a single-seater racecar and feel the adrenaline rush of Formula 1.

1 Day Experience

$2999

Ground School
Skid Control Drill
Safety Gear Fitment
Open-Wheel Car Control Basics
Seat Introduction & Fitment
Shifting Drill
Braking & Handing Practice
Lead-Follow Sessions
Debriefing Session
Lunch Included
Note: You cannot advance to intermediate courses with only a 1-day intro course

2 Day

$4499

Ground School
Handling Drill
Track Introduction
Lead-Follow Sessions
Skid Control Drill
Lead-Follow Sessions
Debriefing Session & Graduation
Lunch Included



F4 Racing – Intermediate Course

Our intermediate F4 racing courses give racers the opportunity to further their skills and knowledge behind the wheel of our Formula 4 racing cars. Formula 4 intermediate experiences are available in both a 1 or 2-day course.

Formula 4 Intermediate courses are designed for graduates of our Intro-to-F4 program. The intermediate course takes your single-seater racing experience to the next level. Building upon your foundation knowledge, this crucial stage in your Formula 4 driver development journey delves deeper into the art of racing. During this course more time is dedicated to honing your reaction skills, mastering skid mitigation and control, and receiving comprehensive line technique training.

After intermediate Formula 4 training, you’ll feel even more confident behind the wheel of our powerful Ligier JS racing cars as you become a more competent driver.

2 Day

$4999

Ground School
Fit to Cars
Track Recap/Lead-Follow Sessions
Lead-Follow Sessions
Open Track Session
Debriefing Session & Graduation
Lunch Included

F4 Racing – Advanced Course

Radford’s advanced Formula 4 racing offers experienced drivers the highest level of tuition. This course focuses on developing professional racers, ensuring they are well on their way to Formula 3, Formula 2, and Formula 1 racing opportunities. Advanced Formula 4 courses are available as a 1,2 or 3-day option.

2 Day

$5999

Ground School
Fit to Cars
Track Recap/Lead-Follow Sessions
Lead-Follow Sessions
Open Track Session
Debriefing Session & Graduation
Lead Follow
Lead Follow with Pass Bys
Data Analysis
Open Track
Additional Sessions tailored to Students needs & goals
Lunch Included

3 Day

$8999

Ground School
Fit to Cars
Track Recap/Lead-Follow Sessions
Lead-Follow Sessions
Open Track Session
Debriefing Session & Graduation
Lead Follow
Lead Follow with Pass Bys
Data Analysis
Open Track
Additional Sessions tailored to Students needs & goals
Extended Track Time
Instruction to Meet Drivers Goals
Lunch Included

Our Advanced F4 program represents the highest level of Formula 4 driver development and offers flexibility with options for 1, 2, or 3-day courses. These courses are focused on drivers with prior racing experience or graduates of our Intermediate F4 program, the advanced course propels racing enthusiasts closer to the realm of a true Formula 1 experience. During this course, you’ll push yourself to the limits of your performance as a racing driver, competing at speeds that bring you ever closer to the exhilaration of a Grand Prix.

At Radford Racing School, safety and control are paramount, our instructors ensure you have the skills and knowledge to compete on the track. Whether you aspire to be the next Formula 1 sensation or enjoy the thrill of motorsport, our Formula 4 single-seater racing experiences offer drivers an unmatched track experience. Get ready to take the wheel, live your racing dream, and be part of the exciting world of motorsport events.

Calendar of Events

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Watch The Course Video!

Get More Info

If you have any questions not covered on our site, feel free to fill out this form and we’ll get you the answers you’re after. Or you can also call anytime at 408-403-7600.

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Here’s What Our Students Are Saying!

Excellent
4.8
Based on 421 reviews
Natalia C.
3 weeks ago
After receiving my Barbie Dream car
Response from the owner:Natalia, We are so happy you had the best time in our class! Thank you for coming out and learning with us. We appreciate you and your kind words. We hope to see you again soon on the track!
ravi T.
3 weeks ago
Visited for DDSL track was in good condition, no complaints.
Mark B.
1 month ago
I did the 3 day GT Road Racing Course. It was fantastic and I will be doing a class with them in the future. I was surprised by how much in car driving was done and the class had student to instructor ratio of 3 to 1. I would estimate 5hrs of car driving per day. The first day focused on technique and handling of the car so we were on the autocross track for the morning and moved to the oval track in the afternoon. In most of the sessions, you did a group drive with the instructor to show you how it is done then you get in your car and do instructor lead follow then you do the drill on your own. The instructor normally took a turn with everyone to give them some feedback. There is lot of track time and classroom is held to minimal amount to teach you the basics and go over what you learned at the end of the day.
Response from the owner:Mark, Thank you so much for this amazing review! We cannot wait to have you back on track. We truly want to give each student an incredible experience on and off the track.
Scott W.
2 months ago
My kids are relatively new drivers, and they took the 2-day Defensive Driving course. Of course, they had a great deal of fun (how could you not?), but I also feel like they just received 5 years worth of experience in two days. Their confidence level behind the wheel has grown by leaps and bounds. But more importantly, I'm certain that their ability to avoid accidents in the future has been greatly enhanced. I think many accidents happen because people don't know how their car is going to react in a pressure situation, and they end up losing control because they've never pushed a car's limits to see what it can - and can't - do. This school will give you a very good idea of how to feel what your vehicle is doing underneath you. If my kids can steer their way around just one big accident in their lives because of what they've learned at Radford, then it's been worth every penny! Shout out to instructor Dominic, and the rest of the staff as well, for running a top notch program and providing an invaluable service to drivers. It's a shame that everyone can't participate in a school like this...
Response from the owner:Scott, we are so happy you and your sons enjoyed the time on our track! We hope to see you all again.
paul P.
3 months ago
Hellcat J.
3 months ago
Radford Racing School is awesome. We got to drive Hellcat Challengers all day. The instructors were very knowledgeable, and cool. The staff was friendly. Non alcoholic drinks were served all day long and lunch was provided. The class got to drive the new SRT Charger, too. It was definitely a once in a lifetime experience for me.
Response from the owner:We are so glad you had an amazing experience! We hope to see you on the track again soon.
Amy B.
3 months ago
I did the SRT owner experience day and it was awesome! The instructors were great as well as the rest of the staff. It was definitely worth the trip out here from the east coast!
Response from the owner:Thank you Amy! We are so happy you enjoyed the SRT Experience!
NATHAN M.
4 months ago
What a great experience. This was my second time there. The staff is awesome and freindly. If you like to drive in a racecar environment, this is the place.
Response from the owner:Thank you for this amazing review Nathan!!!
Rick S.
4 months ago
I have attended several road and drag racing courses over the years. The Radford Dodge Demon 170 course was at the top of my list for excellence. I thought nothing could top the excellent quality instructors, an outstanding course schedule, driving Radford's Demon 170's, and completing the requirements for an NHRA competition license. Last weekend Radford sent one of their top-notch instructors, Rich Lash, to the MSHS "Mopars at the Rock" event at Rockingham Dragway in North Carolina. Rich and I had maintained contact after I took the 170 course, and we agreed to meet at the Rock. Rich agreed to "look" at my car and provide any advice. The resulting interaction was the most valuable I have received from any of the courses taken. Although Rich was meeting with any other drivers at the Rock, he came well prepared to assist past Radford 170 participants and others. He showed up with the latest power grids for the trans break. (The Demon 170 has computer set points from launch to the first 1.6 seconds) We switched from what we called the original 3(B) to a modified B grid that others used successfully attain the 9.5 second runs I was looking for. After watching two runs, Rich determined that the shift power set points needed adjustment. He next noticed that the car lifted about five hundred feet down the track. Again, Rich had the knowledge and experience to know about a transmission fluid issue that requires the addition of 55 ml of transmission fluid to a full transmission to be added thru the transmission air vent. The 170 uses specific type of transmission fluid that was not available at the track so I wrote that fix off as something that I would have to address in the future. I tested the car and the changes that Rich suggested were on point, bringing the car from an also ran to competitive. Rich then went above and beyond. He showed up the next morning with a quart of Dodge transmission fluid and the small funnel that was required to pour it down the transmission vent. He had canvassed his contacts at the race and found a quart of transmission fluid and the funnel. Once the transmission issue was addressed, I went back to the track with an amazing car that no longer dipped or lifted with no hesitation between shifts. I (and several other drivers ) were still having difficulties with the line lock and trans brake initiation process. Rich made very constructive recommendations and set up 15 minutes before racing started to give us time to process in the lane with active lights. We did not launch, just practiced with active lights. Rich watched and determined that one of my problems was related to releasing the brake pedal after the release of one of the two paddles (170 owners probably know what I'm talking about). That leaves you dead at the green light. His advice on how to avoid that problem was spot on. The thing that was amazing what that Rich provided expert counsel and advice not only for Radford participants, but for others that were having Mopar issues or questions. A number of individuals in our racing group received advice on everything from tire pressures to the fool proof method to release the foot brake after the first paddle release in the trans break process. Rich was asked and answered questions on every Dodge model that was racing. I am by no means a novice- over the years I regularly won my class in the NMCA HEMI Shootout, and participating in the Quick 8 quite often. But it was an exceptional experience to get advice on my specific car at the track during an actual competitive event. I'm not sure that anyone can remember everything during course driving a third party vehicle. But I clearly retained what I learned sitting in my own car on a race weekend. The benefit was enormous. Rich also provided advice and counsel to many other drivers at the event. The feedback from those drivers was exceptional. I want to thank Radford and Rich for extending their experience and advice beyond the course in Phoenix. The extra effort that Rich put forth is what makes racing a community.
Response from the owner:Rick, thank you so much for this incredible review!! We are very lucky to have Rich as one of our Drag Racing instructors. We are so happy he was able to help you and make the event even better.
Ivan P.
4 months ago
Tom B.
5 months ago
Nice facility. This event was run by NASA-AZ (a road racing event) These trackdays are a favorite of Arizona's automotive road racing community
Ryan H.
5 months ago
Amazing! Such a fun time.
Jason J.
5 months ago
Instructors are great and had the time of my life. Definitely will be back.
Derek E.
6 months ago
Everyone at Radford Racing was fantastic. We did the Drag program and not only had a blast but learned a lot both drag racing, the track itself, and the demon 170 vehicle. Thank you again.
Response from the owner:We are so happy you enjoyed your time with us!
Nick
6 months ago
The whole crew is amazing! William and Spencer worked directly with us during the four day GT class and they were awesome! Stephanie and lauren also killed it at the front desk. This school is definitely worth the cost of admission!!
Response from the owner:Thank you! We appreciate this awesome review. We hope to see you on the track soon!
Ali C.
7 months ago
I went as part of a group experience for a conference I was attending. It was so cool. We got to pace with a lead car and then we also drove on a coned...
Kevin T.
8 months ago
I attended the two-day Ultimate Muscle Car Experience from 1-6 to 1-7 with my daughter and it was an amazing experience for both of us. The instructors went...
Rugby
8 months ago
Ford vs Ferrari
Matthew C.
9 months ago
(fka Bonderant Racing School) Whether you're planning to race professionally, are already a racecar driver, an enthusiast who wants to drive fast safely, or want better control and understanding of your car, Radford Racing is for you! Incredible instructors with decades of experience racing and teaching, who build your skills from the ground up. Not only do you walk away with a much greater understanding of driving dynamics and car control, but an incredible experience, and many hours of drive time. I would rather go to Radford than take a cruise or go to Disney. I've been twice, to take the GT Road Racing course in January and this time the Advanced Road Racing course in December. So enjoyable! So beneficial! I'm exhausted from the course, but want to go back!
Response from the owner:Thank you for this amazing review! We are so happy you spent time on our track and we hope to see you back again soon.
Ed C.
9 months ago
I took the 2 day Dodge Demon 170 Class, it was amazing. Learned so much about the car, driving and racing. Instructors are phenomenal and I would highly recommend this school
Response from the owner:We hope we made your time with us memorable and supercharged! 😉 Thank you for this great review!!
Kelly T.
10 months ago
I attended the 2 day Performance Driving School from 11-17 to 11/18. My only disappointment was it rained the 2nd day, (I mean poured, a rare thing in...
Rafa G.
11 months ago
Spent a nice day here, hadn't been so excited in a long time! 🚧 At the end of the day I was given "cone killer award" wich is not something you usually want to brag about, but I loved my trophy and all in all I'm so glad I attended Redford Driving school.
Response from the owner:Amazing pictures!!! We are so honored to have had your group out with us on track and being the Cone Killer can't be a bad thing 😉
Mitch L.
11 months ago
Road warrior weekend 2025 was incredible I can’t thank all of the staff and instructors for such an amazing experience. All of the instructors are top notch and incredible at what they do. I can’t wait to return next year to learn more from these amazing people.
Response from the owner:Thank you! We cannot wait to have you back on our track!
Jerry G.
11 months ago
The ultimate experience with the Road Warriors 2025!!!
Debra Allen B.
11 months ago
We did the 2 day HPD class, 4 of us took the class it was excellent!!! We learned so much and had the best time ! Our instructors Rob & BJ were #1 !!!!!!

Formula 4 Open Wheel Racing FAQs

On the Formula 4 Introduction course you will learn open-wheel car control basics, seat introduction and fitment, shifting drill, breaking & handling practice and lead-follow sessions. You will have a good understanding of how the car works and feel comfortable at the wheel.
During our Formula 4 Intermediate course you will learn handling, skid control, lead & follow, and complete open track sessions. As your driving skills develop you will be able to push the car harder and begin to experience the exhilarating levels of performance our F4 cars have to offer.
Our Formula 4 Advanced course is offered on a 1-day, 2-day and 3-day basis where you get to work 1-on-1 with an experienced instructor to gain a higher understanding of modern F4 cars. Achieve a deeper level of understanding about our formula cars and gain the confidence to extract higher levels of performance from the car.
Our Formula 4 Introduction course has no prerequisites, however, if you want to progress to the Intermediate course you will need to complete the 2-day Introduction course.

Courses are capped at 3 students to ensure students receive proper and detailed instruction.

Regular hours are 8:30 am – 4:00 pm (October – May). Summer hours are 7:00 am – 2:30 pm (June – September).
Students will need an SA2020 or higher-rated helmet. Helmets can be bought in our pro shop for $229 or rented for just $25 a day. Students will also need closed-toed shoes, driving shoes are preferred.
Yes, students who successfully complete the course will receive a certificate of completion.

Open wheel racing refers to a type of motorsport in which the vehicles have wheels that are not contained within the bodywork of the car, meaning the wheels are exposed to the air – just like our Ligier JS F4 racecar.

Open wheel Formula 4 (F4) is a junior motorsport series designed as an entry-level category for young drivers stepping up from karting or other early motorsport competitions. Established by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) in 2014, F4 aims to provide a standardized and accessible pathway for drivers aiming to progress to higher levels of open-wheel racing, such as Formula 3, Formula 2, and eventually Formula 1.

Our school features a purpose-built 15-turn, 1.6-mile race track that has been carefully designed to offer racers of all abilities an exciting challenge that improves driving performance in a safe, controlled environment.

Open-wheel racing courses will take place on our main track with spectator stands strategically placed on the trackside to offer friends and family an excellent view of your open-wheel racing experience.

Our Formula 4 racing school is in Chandler in South East Phoenix, Arizona. Radford’s open-wheel racing school is conveniently located just off the I-10 for easy access from major cities nearby.

From Phoenix, AZ (approximately 20 miles, about 25 minutes):

  • Take I-10 East toward Tucson.
    Use exit 162 for Wild Horse Pass Blvd.
  • Turn right onto Wild Horse Pass Blvd.
  • Turn left onto S. Maricopa Rd.
  • Enter through Gate #3 to reach our school.

From Tucson, AZ (approximately 100 miles, about 1 hour 40 minutes):

  • Take I-10 West toward Phoenix.
  • Use exit 162 for Wild Horse Pass Blvd.
  • Turn left onto Wild Horse Pass Blvd.
  • Turn left onto S. Maricopa Rd.
  • Enter through Gate #3 to reach our school.

About Radford’s F4 Open Wheel Racing School

Have you ever had the dream of experiencing the thrill of being behind the wheel of a Formula 4 racing car, reminiscent of those in the world of Formula 1? Join us at Radford at our exhilarating Formula 4 driving school, which offers racing enthusiasts an adrenaline-fuelled taste of some of the world’s most exciting racing.

Formula 4 racing classes at our school serve as the ideal stepping stone towards a professional racing career, or just as the ideal racing experience for a motorsports fanatic. Our open-wheel racing school presents an unforgettable opportunity to take control of a competitive, cutting-edge, single-seater race car—the Ligier JS Formula 4.

Powered by a 2-liter race-tuned Honda engine that churns out a formidable 160 bhp, and weighing in at just 1254 lbs, the Ligier JS F4 has been handpicked by both the FIA and SCCA Pro Racing as the exclusive model in the F4 US Championship since 2016.

Inspired by the pinnacle of motorsport, Formula 1, these cars provide an unrivaled experience, allowing you to push the boundaries of speed and performance, all from behind the wheel of a genuine racing machine.

Whether you’re embarking on your first lap around the track or you’re a seasoned racing driver, our Formula 4 driving school provides a suitable level of instruction to meet your level of driving experience. Our open-wheel instructors ensure you feel confident and in control, as you get behind the wheel of our race-ready Formula 4 cars.

An astounding 80% seat time throughout the course makes Radford the go-to open-wheel racing school in Phoenix, Arizona.

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